Charleston Co. Council to discuss zoning changes, 'East Edisto' development

Charleston County Council will hold a public hearing Tuesday night on a planned development which could impact many who live in a rural area of Charleston and Dorchester counties.

MeadWestvaco wants to build their "East Edisto" project on land along the Edisto River, between highways 17 and 61.

The development would include many small communities or villages, with space for homes, schools, businesses, shops, and restaurants.

Charleston County planners want to change zoning laws in that area to a "form-based zoning district" because they say it would help to limit urban development in that rural part of the county.

"You're not going to see the intensity of development or sprawl that would occur if you just had traditional zoning. You're really starting to focus and channel," Charleston County Planning Director Dan Pennick said.

The public hearing will be held in the Lonnie Hamilton III Public Services Building on Bridge View Drive in North Charleston at 6 p.m.

Council members plan to take a first vote on the proposed zoning changes on Oct. 16.

If the new zoning district is approved, MeadWestvaco hopes to start working with the county to get approval for East Edisto by end of next year. They will also be working with Dorchester County officials for approval of the project.